“The vehicle is versatile and sporty. I enjoy the flexibility of gas vs electric vs hybrid for options between performance and economy. Wish it could go a little further on all electric and that the driver seat was more comfortable on long drives.”
Dodge Hornet: Trims, Generations & Buyer's Guide
Last updated August 4, 2026
The Dodge Hornet is a compact five-seat SUV known for punchy performance, standard all-wheel drive, and aggressive styling. Its lineup pairs a turbocharged gas model with a quicker plug-in hybrid.
Across its brief 2023-2025 U.S. run, the Hornet consistently put speed and attitude ahead of the usual economy-first compact-SUV formula. Strong power, standard all-wheel drive, and a driver-focused cabin defined the model. The gas GT formed the core of the range, while the R/T added a plug-in-hybrid take on the same performance theme.
Strengths
- Every Hornet sends power to all four wheels, which keeps the lineup simple for shoppers who want all-wheel drive.
- The gas GT had a strong 268 horsepower in 2025, giving the Hornet the punchy character Dodge emphasizes.
- The plug-in-hybrid R/T was rated for 33 miles of electric driving in 2025, which can cover shorter trips without using gas.
- A large digital gauge display and central touchscreen were standard from launch, giving even the base model a modern cabin.
- The trim structure is easy to follow, with GT models using gas power and R/T models providing the quicker plug-in-hybrid experience.
Who it's for
The Hornet fits someone who needs an everyday compact SUV but wants stronger acceleration and bolder styling than practicality-first alternatives usually emphasize. The GT suits drivers who want the simpler gas-powered route, while the R/T makes more sense for commuters who can use its short electric driving range without giving up its performance focus.
Dodge Hornet lineup
Pick the GT for the Hornet’s core formula: turbo gas power, all-wheel drive, and a performance-focused personality. Step up to the GT Plus for the same gas foundation with a more upscale cabin. Since joining the lineup for 2024, the R/T has been the quicker plug-in-hybrid alternative, with its PowerShot feature serving as the headline performance twist. The R/T Plus combines that electrified powertrain with the Plus model’s more premium interior approach.
Dodge Hornet generations
From 2023 to 2025, the Hornet spans 1 generation. The current 1st Generation arrived for 2023.
1st Generation (2023–2025)
The Hornet’s first U.S. generation is a compact SUV with standard AWD, a digital instrument display, and a 10.25-inch touchscreen. It started with the gas-powered GT branch, then added R/T plug-in hybrid models for 2024.
65 In Stock
2025
Final U.S. model year. The four-trim lineup, gas and plug-in hybrid powertrains, standard AWD, screens, and core safety features carry over.
2024
R/T and R/T Plus plug-in hybrid trims join the lineup alongside the returning gas-powered GT models.
2023New generation
All-new Hornet launches as a compact SUV with standard AWD, a 12.3-inch digital instrument display, and a 10.25-inch touchscreen.
What's new by year
See what changed in a specific model year of the Dodge Hornet.
Frequently asked questions
Is the Dodge Hornet an SUV?
Yes. The Dodge Hornet is a four-door compact SUV with seating for five. Its focus is stronger performance and more aggressive styling than an economy-first small SUV.
What is the Dodge Hornet known for?
The Hornet is known for strong turbo power, standard all-wheel drive, large cabin screens, and sporty styling. It favors quick response and attitude over an economy-first approach.
Does the Dodge Hornet come as a hybrid?
Yes. The R/T and R/T Plus use a 288-hp plug-in-hybrid system. Recent versions can travel an estimated 33 miles on electricity before the gas engine is needed.
Does every Dodge Hornet have all-wheel drive?
Yes. All-wheel drive is standard across the Hornet lineup. Gas GT models use a conventional system, while plug-in-hybrid R/T models use electric all-wheel drive.
Who is the Dodge Hornet a good fit for?
The Hornet suits someone who wants a small, five-seat SUV with strong acceleration, standard all-wheel drive, and useful everyday technology. The R/T models also fit drivers who can plug in and want short electric trips.
How many generations of the Dodge Hornet are there?
There is one U.S.-market Hornet generation. It ran from 2023 through 2025, with gas GT models and plug-in-hybrid R/T models making up the core lineup.
How much passenger and cargo space does the Dodge Hornet have?
The Hornet seats five. Recent gas models provide up to 54.7 cubic feet of cargo room, while plug-in-hybrid models provide up to 50.5 cubic feet because their electrical hardware takes up some space.
Dodge Hornet Reviews
What owners are saying about the Dodge Hornet.
3.9
Dodge Hornet
(133 reviews)
“It's comfortable while providing tech and power. It makes your daily commute fun to drive while still respecting your fuel cost.”
“I am not a fan of the hybrid vehicle. I am an old fashioned gas gal. It is too much to think about when driving a car.”
“The active radar only works 40% of the time. When it fails it makes the auto unsafe until I can recover the set speed and lane control.”
“I like the styling and creature comforts of the vehicle. The technology is superior and the handling is impeccable. It's good on gas and no one has one. Since I've owned my vehicle I have not seen one on the road.”
“It's fast, comfortable, reliable, good gas mileage, and very tech friendly. It has get up and go when needed, it's fun to drive but most importantly it's safe. It's intuitive and has all the bells and whistles for standard model”